A four-day training programme focusing on natural farming and sustainable agricultural practices was recently held at Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni, Solan. The event brought together scientists from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), representatives from Local Natural Farming Institutions (LNFI), and Farmer Master Trainers (FMTs) to enhance their understanding and implementation of eco-friendly farming techniques.
Organized under the National Mission on Natural Farming, the initiative was part of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare’s efforts to promote environmentally responsible farming practices across India. As one of the seven officially designated centres for natural farming in the country, the university played host to a group of 21 participants, including 13 Farmer Master Trainers and eight scientists from KVKs.
A Step Towards Strengthening Knowledge on Natural Farming
The training programme aimed to equip attendees with the necessary knowledge and skills to implement and advocate natural farming techniques in their respective regions. The participants engaged in an interactive learning experience that covered both theoretical and practical aspects. With soil degradation and excessive dependence on chemical inputs posing significant threats to agriculture, such initiatives were crucial in promoting sustainable alternatives that prioritized long-term soil health and ecological balance.
Dr. Sanjeev Chauhan, Director of Research at the university, inaugurated the training session and underscored the importance of practical exposure in achieving effective implementation of natural farming methods. He highlighted the role of such training programmes in bridging the knowledge gap between research institutions and grassroots-level farming communities.
Expert Sessions Focused on Core Aspects of Natural Farming
Over the course of four days, participants attended 13 expert-led sessions covering a wide range of topics essential to farming. The sessions delved into fundamental principles, techniques, and innovations in natural farming, helping participants develop a deeper understanding of holistic agricultural practices. Experts provided an overview of the philosophy and science behind natural farming, emphasizing how these techniques aligned with sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation.
One of the primary concerns in modern agriculture was soil degradation. Sessions focused on techniques to restore and maintain soil fertility without relying on synthetic fertilizers. Participants learned about natural ways to manage pests through biological control methods and the use of bio-inputs instead of chemical pesticides. Another session explained the benefits of cultivating multiple crops in layers to maximize land use efficiency and improve biodiversity on farms.
Sustainable dairy farming methods were discussed, including the role of indigenous cow breeds and how dairy by-products could be effectively used in natural farming. The importance of using indigenous seeds and preparing bio-inputs such as Jeevamrut, Beejamrut, and Ghana Jeevamrut to enhance soil fertility and plant health was emphasized. The concept of ‘Krishi Sakhis’—community-based women farmers trained in natural farming—was also discussed, highlighting their role in grassroots agricultural transformation.
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A Practical Approach to Learning and Implementation
Unlike conventional training that relied heavily on lectures and presentations, this programme incorporated hands-on demonstrations and field visits to ensure practical exposure. Participants had the opportunity to observe and practice techniques such as preparing biofertilizers, composting, and natural pest management solutions. This experiential approach allowed them to gain confidence in applying what they learned in real-world farming situations.
The training also facilitated discussions among participants, enabling them to share their experiences, challenges, and success stories. This exchange of ideas and practical insights further enriched the learning process, encouraging collaborative problem-solving and the development of innovative solutions tailored to local agricultural conditions.
The Growing Importance of Natural Farming in India
Natural farming had gained increasing attention in India as concerns about soil health, declining agricultural productivity, and climate change continued to mount. Unlike conventional farming, which relied on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, natural farming encouraged the use of organic inputs, indigenous seeds, and ecosystem-based approaches. This not only helped in maintaining soil fertility but also reduced production costs for farmers, making agriculture more economically viable in the long run.
With the government’s emphasis on sustainable agriculture, programmes like these played a critical role in equipping farmers and agricultural professionals with the skills required to transition to natural farming practices. The participants of this training were expected to act as ambassadors of natural farming, guiding and training other farmers in their respective communities.
As the training concluded, participants expressed their enthusiasm for applying these techniques in their work and sharing their knowledge with fellow farmers. The need for continuous learning and follow-up programmes was emphasized, ensuring that farmers received ongoing support in their transition to natural farming.
The success of this programme highlighted the importance of such initiatives in India’s agricultural landscape. With increased awareness, training, and support from institutions and government bodies, natural farming had the potential to reshape the future of Indian agriculture, making it more resilient, sustainable, and beneficial for both farmers and the environment.